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Team uses AlphaFold AI to redesign gene-editing proteins to make them safer

Team uses AlphaFold AI to redesign gene-editing proteins to make them safer

Summary

Researchers used the AI tool AlphaFold to study and change gene-editing proteins, making them safer by reducing unintended edits to DNA. They focused on the Cas9 protein in the CRISPR system, which can sometimes attach to the wrong DNA sequences by mistake.

Key Facts

  • Gene-editing therapies can sometimes edit the wrong DNA sequences, called off-target effects.
  • CRISPR gene editing uses guide RNA, Cas9 protein, and another protein that changes DNA.
  • Cas9 can still bind to DNA even if there are small mismatches, causing off-target edits.
  • Scientists used AlphaFold, an AI that predicts protein structures, to find parts of Cas9 causing off-target effects.
  • They modified these parts in Cas9 to reduce mistaken DNA edits.
  • Researchers built a big library of off-target sites using a version of CRISPR that changes DNA bases for study.
  • Their work helps make gene editing safer for medical use.
  • The research was published in the journal Nature by a team in China.
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Map Shows National Monuments Trump Could Target Next After Bears Ears Cuts

Map Shows National Monuments Trump Could Target Next After Bears Ears Cuts

Summary

President Donald Trump has reduced the size of two large national monuments in Utah, Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante, by about 90%. The White House says this will allow more land use for activities like mining and recreation, but tribes and conservation groups disagree and have criticized the decision. Similar protected areas in Arizona created under President Biden face political challenges over mining and land use.

Key Facts

  • President Trump cut Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments in Utah by approximately 90% each.
  • The reductions shrink Grand Staircase-Escalante from about 1.87 million acres to 181,500 acres and Bears Ears from 1.36 million acres to 121,100 acres.
  • The White House claims the changes keep important protected features safe while opening other lands for grazing, hunting, mining, and recreation.
  • Tribal leaders, including members of the Navajo Nation, say the cuts ignore tribal consultation and are harmful to their heritage.
  • Other large monuments such as Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni near the Grand Canyon and Ironwood Forest in Arizona have also been targeted for possible reduction or mining development.
  • Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni was created by President Biden in 2023 to protect sacred tribal sites and wildlife and bans new uranium mining.
  • Arizona Representative Paul Gosar has introduced bills to reduce or cancel monuments, citing mining restrictions.
  • Conservation groups warn that these moves threaten habitats of endangered animals and culturally significant lands.
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Jon Ossoff Has a Problem With Georgia's Most Motivated Voters

Jon Ossoff Has a Problem With Georgia's Most Motivated Voters

Summary

Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is leading Republican Mike Collins in the Georgia U.S. Senate race according to a recent AARP poll. However, Collins leads among older voters who are most motivated to vote, which could impact the election outcome since older voters tend to turn out more in midterms.

Key Facts

  • The AARP poll surveyed 1,060 likely Georgia voters from July 13-16, with a 3% margin of error.
  • Ossoff leads Collins 52% to 43% among likely voters, with 5% undecided.
  • Ossoff is ahead by 30 points among voters under 50 (61% to 31%).
  • Collins leads voters 50 and older by 8 points (53% to 45%) and widens this lead to 24 points among those 65+.
  • Older voters are more motivated, with 88% of those 50+ rating their likelihood to vote as very high, compared to 62% of younger voters.
  • President Donald Trump’s job approval is currently 16 points underwater in Georgia.
  • The poll shows Democrats leading Republicans 51% to 44% on a general congressional ballot in Georgia.
  • The age gap in voter motivation suggests the race could become closer if younger voters do not turn out in large numbers.
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Dem panel taps South Carolina to hold first 2028 presidential primary

Dem panel taps South Carolina to hold first 2028 presidential primary

Summary

South Carolina has been chosen by a Democratic committee to hold the first Democratic presidential primary in 2028, beating Nevada after a debate about race and party loyalty. The final decision still needs approval from the full Democratic National Committee.

Key Facts

  • South Carolina was picked over Nevada to have the first Democratic primary in 2028.
  • The decision was made by the Democratic National Committee’s Rules & Bylaws panel but requires final approval.
  • The debate highlighted disagreements among Democrats about race, region, and political views.
  • Black leaders supported South Carolina due to its large Black voter population and past loyalty to the party.
  • Latino leaders favored Nevada because of its many Latino and working-class voters.
  • South Carolina held the first primary in 2024 after President Biden’s support.
  • Reverend Al Sharpton and South Carolina Democrats publicly supported the state’s early primary status.
  • New Hampshire and Iowa may try to hold early contests despite party rules against it.
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Five officers injured as police boat strikes Westminster Bridge

Five officers injured as police boat strikes Westminster Bridge

Summary

A police boat crashed into Westminster Bridge in central London, injuring five officers who entered the water but were rescued. Emergency services, including police, fire, ambulance, and lifeboat crews, responded to the incident, and the bridge was closed to traffic.

Key Facts

  • The crash happened around 3:40 pm on a Friday.
  • Five police officers were injured and are receiving medical treatment.
  • No members of the public were reported hurt.
  • The injured officers were in the water for about 10 minutes before being rescued.
  • Emergency services included the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service, Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and Coastguard.
  • Westminster Bridge was closed, with a cordon at both ends stopping all traffic.
  • Westminster tube station exits one and two were closed temporarily.
  • River boat services, including Thames Clippers, were disrupted and Westminster pier was closed.
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Arrests, denials and missing images: Gulf states’ response to Iranian strikes

Arrests, denials and missing images: Gulf states’ response to Iranian strikes

Summary

Since the conflict between Iran and the United States began on February 28, Iranian forces have targeted US military sites in Gulf states allied with the US. Gulf countries have arrested over 1,000 people to prevent the sharing of images and information about these Iranian strikes, while denying that the attacks have reached their targets.

Key Facts

  • Iran has launched attacks on US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and Jordan since February 28, 2026.
  • Many videos showing these attacks are short, distant, and filmed from border areas, such as Iraqi cities.
  • Gulf governments have arrested more than 1,000 people accused of filming or sharing images of the attacks.
  • Arrests include residents, journalists, tourists, and expatriates.
  • Bahrain arrested over 300 people in late May; at least 34 were sentenced to 3-10 years in prison for sharing content online.
  • Kuwait sentenced more than 200 people to suspended or real prison terms between April and May.
  • In the UAE, 375 people were arrested in March, with police conducting phone searches in affected areas.
  • Bahrain and Kuwait revoked the citizenship of many people accused of supporting Iran or sharing information on the strikes.
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Trump's Saudi Nuclear Deal Fiasco May Finally Push Ally to China and Russia

Trump's Saudi Nuclear Deal Fiasco May Finally Push Ally to China and Russia

Summary

President Donald Trump added a condition to a U.S.-Saudi deal to develop Saudi Arabia’s civilian nuclear program, requiring Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel first. Saudi Arabia has rejected this condition and may look to China or Russia for nuclear cooperation instead.

Key Facts

  • The U.S.-Saudi nuclear agreement was announced but then President Trump said it depended on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords, which means making peace with Israel.
  • Saudi Arabia insists it will only normalize ties with Israel if a Palestinian state is recognized first, based on agreed Arab plans.
  • Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have not moved on this issue, putting the deal in doubt.
  • Saudi Arabia has experience working with China and Russia on nuclear technology, including uranium and reactors.
  • Other countries and companies are willing to help Saudi Arabia build its first commercial nuclear reactor if the U.S. deal fails.
  • Israel is the only Middle Eastern country believed to have nuclear weapons and does not join the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
  • The U.S. has a history of involving itself in Middle Eastern nuclear issues, such as the 2003 Iraq invasion and actions against Iran’s nuclear program.
  • The United Arab Emirates began operating a nuclear energy plant in 2020 with U.S. cooperation under a special agreement.
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Emotions erupt at Denver airport after ICE detains woman accused of overstaying visa

Emotions erupt at Denver airport after ICE detains woman accused of overstaying visa

Summary

A woman was detained by ICE at Denver airport on suspicion of staying in the country past her visa expiration. Witnesses initially thought ICE officers were questioning Latina women more broadly about their visa status.

Key Facts

  • ICE stands for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a U.S. agency that enforces immigration laws.
  • A woman was detained at Denver airport for allegedly overstaying her visa.
  • Witnesses saw ICE officers speaking to Latina women about visas at the airport.
  • People at the airport showed strong emotions after the detention.
  • It was not initially clear that ICE was targeting a specific individual.
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11 people indicted over deaths of six people in cargo container in Texas

11 people indicted over deaths of six people in cargo container in Texas

Summary

Eleven people were charged in a federal court for their involvement in the deaths of six migrants found inside a rail cargo container in Laredo, Texas. The migrants, including a 14-year-old boy, died from heatstroke while being smuggled on a freight train near the US-Mexico border.

Key Facts

  • Six migrants died inside a sealed rail cargo container in Laredo, Texas, in May.
  • The victims were from Honduras and Mexico, and included one 14-year-old boy and a 56-year-old adult.
  • Authorities believe the deaths were caused by hyperthermia, which means overheating or heatstroke.
  • The bodies were discovered by a Union Pacific rail employee.
  • Eleven people were federally indicted for their role in the human smuggling operation linked to these deaths.
  • Laredo is a busy land port on the US-Mexico border with heavy trade activity.
  • Trains often slow or stop in Mexico before crossing into the US, which creates chances for smuggling people or goods.
  • Experts note that harsh heat and climate conditions make survival in sealed, non-air-conditioned containers very difficult.
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Netanyahu to meet with Trump, attend Graham funeral as Iran conflict widens

Netanyahu to meet with Trump, attend Graham funeral as Iran conflict widens

Summary

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit Washington next week to meet with President Donald Trump. Their meeting comes amid increasing tensions in the conflict involving Israel, the U.S., and Iran. Netanyahu will also attend the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham during his trip.

Key Facts

  • Netanyahu will travel to Washington on Monday.
  • He will meet President Trump at the White House.
  • The visit happens as conflict involving Israel, the U.S., and Iran is expanding.
  • The situation has raised concerns about how the conflict might end.
  • Netanyahu plans to attend Senator Lindsey Graham’s funeral while in Washington.
  • The meeting and funeral attendance show close ties between Israel and the U.S. during this tense period.
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Three Gene Variants May Delay—or Speed Up—Alzheimer's, Study Finds

Three Gene Variants May Delay—or Speed Up—Alzheimer's, Study Finds

Summary

Researchers found three gene variants that can change how early or late inherited Alzheimer's disease appears. These gene changes may help explain why people with the same inherited mutations get symptoms at different ages.

Key Facts

  • The study focused on autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease (ADAD), a rare inherited form caused by mutations in APP, PSEN1, or PSEN2 genes.
  • ADAD represents about 1% of all Alzheimer's cases and usually starts at a younger age.
  • Scientists analyzed genetic data from 101 people with ADAD and over 5,000 people without these mutations.
  • Three genes—CNIH4, CCNG1, and RHOJ—were linked with changes in Alzheimer's risk or how fast the disease progresses.
  • A variant in CCNG1 was tied to symptoms starting about 10 years earlier and higher levels of a harmful brain protein called TDP-43.
  • The RHOJ variant was linked to markers showing more severe Alzheimer's damage in the brain.
  • The CNIH4 variant may play a key role in how inherited Alzheimer's develops.
  • These findings could help improve diagnosis, guide clinical trials, and lead to new treatments, not only for inherited Alzheimer's but also for common Alzheimer’s cases.
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DOJ admits legal errors, drops subpoenas of New York Times journalists

DOJ admits legal errors, drops subpoenas of New York Times journalists

Summary

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) made legal mistakes and decided to drop subpoenas for two New York Times journalists. These journalists had reported on security issues involving the Air Force One plane that President Trump received as a gift from Qatar. A judge pointed out the DOJ’s errors in handling the case.

Key Facts

  • The DOJ issued subpoenas to two New York Times journalists.
  • The subpoenas were related to a story about security concerns involving President Trump’s Air Force One.
  • The plane was a gift from Qatar to President Trump.
  • A judge criticized the DOJ for making legal mistakes in this case.
  • Due to these errors, the DOJ withdrew the subpoenas.
  • The journalists were reporting on sensitive security matters.
  • The case gained attention because it involved press freedom and government actions.
  • The incident highlights the balance between national security and journalists’ rights.
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Iran’s much improved missile systems pose a real threat to the US

Iran’s much improved missile systems pose a real threat to the US

Summary

Iran has improved its missile systems using technology and tactics from China and Russia, allowing more accurate attacks on U.S. bases and allies in the Middle East. Despite U.S. defenses, recent attacks have caused military casualties and damage, showing Iran’s missile program remains strong and a serious threat.

Key Facts

  • Iran bombed U.S. and allied bases in the Gulf region with increased accuracy.
  • Three American soldiers died in an attack on a U.S.-protected airbase in Jordan.
  • Iran used Chinese satellite images and Russian tactics to improve missile targeting.
  • U.S. sanctions targeted three Chinese companies supplying satellite data to Iran.
  • Iran’s missile program is about 70% intact, according to U.S. intelligence.
  • Iranian missiles use multiple satellite navigation systems (GPS, BeiDou, Glonass) for guidance.
  • Iran has developed missiles with steerable warheads to evade defenses.
  • U.S. missile defense interceptors have been reduced, making it harder to block attacks.
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Moms speak out, alleging their sons were switched at birth decades ago

Moms speak out, alleging their sons were switched at birth decades ago

Summary

Two mothers say their sons were switched at birth in 1988 at a hospital in North Dakota. The discovery came after one son took a DNA test that matched him to the other family, leading to a lawsuit against the hospital.

Key Facts

  • Jeremy Morrison and Kyle Bylin were born on the same day, January 26, 1988, at Unity Medical Center in North Dakota.
  • The two boys were reportedly switched at birth and went home with each other's families.
  • The hospital says it has no medical records from 1988 and denies responsibility for the alleged switch.
  • Kyle Bylin took a DNA test given to him as a Christmas gift which showed his DNA matched Jeremy Morrison's family.
  • Jeremy Morrison’s DNA also matched Kyle Bylin’s parents, confirming the mix-up.
  • Both families have filed a lawsuit against the hospital in state court.
  • Morrison wants a formal apology from the hospital, stating they are fully at fault.
  • The situation has caused emotional distress but Morrison says he values both the family he was raised in and the family he discovered.
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US expands Iran attacks as Trump warns Tehran and Houthis over Red Sea strikes

US expands Iran attacks as Trump warns Tehran and Houthis over Red Sea strikes

Summary

The US carried out strikes on targets in Iran, reaching as far as the Caspian Sea, after President Donald Trump warned Iran and its allies in Yemen over attacks in the Red Sea. Iran responded with missile and drone strikes on US bases in the region, while peace talks appear to be stalled.

Key Facts

  • The US attacked targets across Iran, including areas near the Caspian Sea.
  • President Trump threatened "major military punishment" for Iran and the Houthi group in Yemen.
  • Iran launched missile and drone attacks on US military bases and allies in countries like Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait.
  • The Houthis control parts of Yemen and are blockading Saudi ports at the Bab el-Mandeb strait, a key route to the Red Sea.
  • These attacks caused oil prices to rise above $100 per barrel and increased shipping costs through the Red Sea.
  • President Trump warned China and Russia not to sell weapons to Iran, based on their claims they are not doing so.
  • Peace talks have stalled, with Iran rejecting a US ceasefire proposal and insisting on protecting their interests in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • The situation has disrupted global shipping routes, forcing tankers to take longer, more expensive paths around Africa.
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Water bosses’ pay rises despite bonus ban and public fury over bills and pollution

Water bosses’ pay rises despite bonus ban and public fury over bills and pollution

Summary

Water company chief executives in England and Wales received higher pay in the past year despite a government ban on bonuses and public anger over water bills and pollution. Some companies used loopholes to increase executive pay, with the highest being £2.5 million paid to the head of United Utilities.

Key Facts

  • Total pay for water company CEOs and CFOs rose by 1.5% to £25.3 million in the last year.
  • The government banned bonuses in 2025 for companies responsible for serious pollution or financial problems.
  • Mark Thurston, CEO of Anglian Water, earned £1.9 million, including a £500,000 “retention payment” not classified as a bonus.
  • Louise Beardmore, CEO of United Utilities, received £2.5 million, which was £1.1 million more than the previous year.
  • Some pay increases were made with “non-performance-related payments” which companies say are not bonuses.
  • Water companies face criticism for rising bills, pollution incidents, and poor infrastructure.
  • Andy Burnham, a government official, supports stronger public control and possibly government ownership of troubled water companies.
  • Customers in many areas face droughts and hosepipe bans amid concerns about water supply and pollution.
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Teen pleads guilty to murder in a 2024 shooting that left 4 dead at Georgia's Apalachee High School

Teen pleads guilty to murder in a 2024 shooting that left 4 dead at Georgia's Apalachee High School

Summary

A 16-year-old teenager named Colt Gray pleaded guilty to 55 charges, including murder, for a 2024 school shooting at Apalachee High School in Georgia that killed four people and injured others. Gray was 14 when the shooting happened and faces life in prison; his father was also convicted for providing the weapon used in the attack.

Key Facts

  • Colt Gray pleaded guilty to 55 counts, including murder and aggravated assault, related to the September 4, 2024, school shooting.
  • The shooting killed two teachers and two students and wounded nine others.
  • Gray was charged as an adult and was 14 years old at the time of the shooting.
  • The shooting occurred at Apalachee High School in Georgia, northeast of Atlanta.
  • Gray’s trial was scheduled for mid-October but he pled guilty before it began.
  • Gray’s father was convicted of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for giving his son the assault rifle used in the shooting.
  • The judge will decide if Gray is eligible for parole after reviewing victim statements and evidence.
  • Family members of victims have asked for Gray to be sentenced to life in prison without parole.
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Inside the heightened security for the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner

Inside the heightened security for the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner

Summary

The Secret Service has reported a notable increase in threats before the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner. This has led to higher security measures for the event.

Key Facts

  • The White House Correspondents' Dinner was rescheduled.
  • The Secret Service is responsible for security at the event.
  • There has been a significant rise in threats before the dinner.
  • Security has been increased to address these threats.
  • CBS News correspondent Nicole Sganga reported on the situation.
  • The event involves members of the press and the White House.
  • Heightened security means more safety checks and protective measures.
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No, Red Sox Win Streak Didn't Cost Restaurant Chain Thousands

No, Red Sox Win Streak Didn't Cost Restaurant Chain Thousands

Summary

The 99 Restaurants ran a promotion where kids eat free when the Boston Red Sox won a game during the team’s 15-game win streak. Although some reports said the streak cost the restaurant chain thousands of dollars, the promotion actually helped the business by attracting more paying customers and boosting overall sales.

Key Facts

  • The 99 Restaurants offered free kids meals with the purchase of an adult meal whenever the Red Sox won.
  • The Red Sox had a 15-game winning streak during this promotion in July.
  • Some reports estimated the giveaway cost the chain between $16,000 and $60,000.
  • Free meal promotions usually attract more paying customers, increasing sales of adult meals, drinks, and appetizers.
  • The loss from free kids meals is often made up by higher overall revenue from other purchases.
  • Marketing expenses like promotions can sometimes be tax-deductible for businesses.
  • The chain also benefited from free advertising by publicizing the promotion and the Red Sox connection.
  • The promotion gave families an affordable dining option during the Red Sox winning streak.
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How Trump's threat of a "massive attack" on Iran could unfold

How Trump's threat of a "massive attack" on Iran could unfold

Summary

President Donald Trump said he is thinking about a large military attack on Iran as conflict increases. A CBS News report explains how such a U.S. attack might happen.

Key Facts

  • President Donald Trump mentioned a possible "massive attack" on Iran.
  • Tensions and fighting between the U.S. and Iran are rising.
  • CBS News correspondent Charlie D'Agata describes how a U.S. military strike on Iran could take place.
  • The report aims to explain potential military actions and their steps.
  • No specific details about the timing or targets of the attack were given.
  • The report is focused on the possible military response rather than political opinions.
  • The situation reflects growing conflict between the U.S. and Iran.
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